FAQs • West Chester Borough, PA • CivicEngage

When are snow emergencies declared?: Snow Emergencies are declared when winter snow and ice conditions are severe enough to mandate that vehicles should not be parked on public streets. Occasionally, when the prediction is certain enough, the Borough will declare the snow emergency in advance.

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Snow Emergencies

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1. Who declares a snow emergency?: A snow emergency is a declaration by the Mayor in concert with the Borough's Police and Public Works Departments and is supported by Section 104-79 of the Borough Code of Ordinances.

2. When are snow emergencies declared?: Snow Emergencies are declared when winter snow and ice conditions are severe enough to mandate that vehicles should not be parked on public streets. Occasionally, when the prediction is certain enough, the Borough will declare the snow emergency in advance.

3. Why are snow emergencies declared?: Snow emergencies are declared due to substantial accumulation and/or icy conditions. The purpose of the snow emergency is to promote an environment where Borough snow removal crews can better remove snow and ice between the curbs and public streets (curb to curb). This opens the roads to better accommodate future on street parking as well as to facilitate proper access for emergency vehicles including ambulance and fire response vehicles, mail delivery, and trash pick-up.

4. How can I find out when a snow emergency has been declared?: Snow emergencies are normally announced by the Borough via ReadyChesco and our Notify Me service. Snow emergencies will also be announced on this website.

5. How long does a snow emergency last?: Under the code the declaration remains in effect for a period not to exceed 72 hours after cessation of the snowstorm event. Failure to comply with the Borough's declaration of the snow emergency does carry a fine. Also be advised that if necessary, the Borough will tow your car and assess all costs to the owner of the vehicle.

6. Where can I park during a snow emergency?

All borough parking garages are available for the duration of the snow emergency.

These free for use parking garages include the Chestnut Street Garage, Bicentennial Garage on High Street, New Street Garage, Sharpless Street Garage & Matlack Street Garage as well as Chester County's Justice Center Garage.